To experience some of life’s most enjoyable moments, a great memory isn’t absolutely necessary. Pleasure and purpose are provided by many things throughout each and every day. A good quality of life is not only necessary, but owed to people with dementia. But pleasure and purpose can be difficult to achieve for some individuals without assistance from caregivers, families, etc.
Various kinds of activities promote pleasure, fun, physical fitness, mental stimulation, and more. What should these types of activities include? Ideally, the following should apply:
- They are sensitive to the cultural background of each person involved.
- They provide an opportunity for social contact, pleasure, and enjoyment.
- New learning isn’t particularly involved but, rather, residual skills are better maintained.
- Self-esteem is promoted.
- Lost abilities are compensated for.
To assist in providing and planning appropriate activities, we put together some suggestions as to exercises for loved ones with dementia. Remember that, when preparing an area for exercise – particularly where retirement age individuals are concerned – it’s important to make the area hazard free and as safe as possible.
Exercises For Consideration
If possible, activities that were once enjoyed should still be encouraged, such as that of golf. Here are some additional suggestions:
- Aerobics – workout videos are available or enjoy socialization through a class.
- Gym workouts – this can include weight machines, stationary bicycles, treadmills, and more.
- Cycling – tandem bikes offer the opportunity for one person to pedal in back and the other person in front to not only pedal but guide the bicycle. If balance is a problem, consider a three-wheel bicycle for the individual.
- Walking – this is not only free but one of the best exercises in existence. If you or your loved one has a pet, even a short walk provides the perfect opportunity for both the pet and the person in question to get a bit of exercise.
Exercising that doesn’t actually feel like a workout:
- Housework – this can include folding laundry, vacuuming, dusting, etc.
- Gardening – mowing the lawn, raking, pulling weeds, and more are great exercises. (If required, lend a hand or a bit of supervision.)
- Dancing – parties, special events, holiday celebrations, and more are all a wonderful time to include the opportunity for dancing – and it’s great exercise.
The Benefits of Exercises
From regular exercise, numerous benefits can be enjoyed by people with Alzheimer’s, dementia, etc. Here are a few exercise routine benefits:
- Better social skills and communication
- Improved behavior (fewer aggressive actions i.e., swearing, wandering, etc.)
- Memory improvement
- Disease-associated mental decline reduced
- Due to improved balance and strength, falls may be reduced
- Motor skills maintenance
- Better sleep
- Mood improvement
Exercises and Care for Those with Dementia at Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley
Courtesy of our programs and activities, residents at Rittenhouse Village At Lehigh Valley can enjoy whatever level of exercise is appropriate for them.
Through our Dimensions Health and Fitness program, your loved one will be able to better focus on some of the more important aspects in the life of a retirement age individual: emotional, physical, medical, social, spiritual, and intellectual wellness. Through spiritual gatherings, exercise classes, and more, active programming provides opportunities for involvement.
Additionally, by participating in our Celebrations Activities and Events, they’ll be able to engage in games, puzzles, dancing, and other activities that can help keep their mind sharp and their body fit.
If you’d like some information about our exceptional retirement community, please call us at 610.433.9220. For sales and leasing inquiries, you can phone us at 484.212.6577. Better yet, schedule a tour to see for yourself what we have to offer.
